Think It's a Work From Home Job? Think Again.

Working from home. Earn all kinds of cash. Sounds great doesn't it? Before clicking apply, it might be a good idea to research what's really involved. The FTC has investigated numerous cases that took more than $100 million from financially-strapped consumers. The ads were so slick, they drew in people with promises of big earnings, access to industry experts and so much - but only IF the person signed up for online classes to learn more. Victims paid between $2,000 and $20,000 for these so-called products and services before realizing they weren't getting what they paid for.

While this scam takes a slightly different form, this would still technically be deemed a work-from-home scam. This term encompasses a number of online schemes because even though the methodology of the scammer may change, the victim is always asked to pay an upfront fee for products, equipment, or services. Afterward, they’re typically pressured to buy more in order to increase profits or recruit others. Scammers of this type tend to target small businesses or start-ups as well as individuals, as they are often looking to boost revenue or expand quickly.  

If you or anyone is interested in starting a company, start with an organization like the Small Business Administration (SBA), or SCORE. Local colleges with small business centers can act as another resource for free information. (Note the word free.)

If you see an ad online or receive an email that promises a lot with little proof, make sure to research it before committing to anything. See if the company attached to the claim has a BBB Business Profile on bbb.org before making an investment, and report what may be suspected as questionable activity to scamtracker.org.